A massive fire at a nightclub in the North Macedonian town of Kocani has killed 51 people and injured more than 100 others, Interior Minister Panche Toshkovski said at a press conference.
The fire started at around 2:35 a.m. during a concert by a local band at the Pulse nightclub, according to Toshkovski. He said pyrotechnics caused the roof to catch fire. Videos shared show the chaotic situation inside the club, with young people running through the smoke as musicians urged people to escape as quickly as possible.
Health Minister Arben Taravari said that 118 people have been hospitalized, adding that neighboring countries have offered to help.
This is the worst tragedy to have occurred in North Macedonia in recent years.
"This is a difficult and very sad day for Macedonia. The loss of so many young lives is irreparable, and the pain of families, loved ones and friends is indescribable," Prime Minister Hristijan Mickoski wrote on X.
Family members gathered in front of hospitals and city offices in Kocani, pleading with authorities for more information. Authorities are investigating the safety of the building that served as a nightclub.
